New York really comes alive in the summertime. With interesting activities and exciting events cropping up all over the city, you’ll find many reasons to love the area this time of the year. Whether you’re looking for fun ideas for Independence Day, or something a little more off the beaten track, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re planning a great summer vacation, make sure to check out some of our best things to do in New York during the month of July.
Get Festive
Travelling on Independence Day? You might want to consider checking out Macy’s July Fireworks Spectacular. Attracting a large crowd and broadcast live on NBC, the department store’s legendary display is noted as the largest in the country. Each year, thousands of fireworks shoot from four barges on the East River, granting mesmerizing views of the city skyline as you’ve never seen it before. As if that wasn’t enough, the event also features powerful performances from some of your favorite musical megastars. As exciting as it is magical, you won’t want to miss this one.
If you’re looking to view the brilliant display in comfort and style, you might want to think about booking an evening cruise. While sailing across the Hudson River, guests can enjoy the light summer breeze, a delicious sea-food centric dinner and unbeatable views of famous landmarks. In addition, the cruise offers a live DJ playing your favorite party hits and all-you-can-drink beer and wine. Don't forget to take some snaps of the fireworks illuminating the night sky!
Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of July in New York is visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Standing out as two of the most popular attractions in the city, these outstanding monuments tell the profound story of how America became a nation. A total must for history buffs, Ellis Island provides a great educational experience for those of all ages - take a walking through the Immigration Museum, check out the historic hospital, or cruise around the city’s most notable landmarks - the choice is yours! And of course, a trip to Ellis Island wouldn’t be complete without checking out the Statue of Liberty. Not only a photo opportunity, this majestic statue stands as a beautiful symbol of hope and freedom.
Get Cultured
Are you looking to try out some of the city’s best culinary offerings? Well, look no further! Situated in a state park across the East River waterfront, Smorgasburg fest provides a total treat for the senses. With over 100 artisanal vendors serving up pretty much every speciality under the sun, you can feast on Korean rice hot dogs, rainbow empanadas, and souffle pancakes. Order a beer, grab a bite, and enjoy the sunset – what's not to love?
Summertime in New York can only mean one thing – music festivals! Combining the stunning backdrop of Central Park with an incredible lineup of world-famous artists and emerging talent, Summerstage festival provides the quintessential New York experience for music lovers. Previous performers have included Patti Smith, the Indigo Girls, and Galactic among others. In addition, the event produces free dance, theater, film and spoken word programs for those who are interested.
Summertime in New York brings a whole host of wonderful outdoor events. Held annually against the backdrop of Central Park, Shakespeare in the Park gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy prime theater under the beautiful night skies. Notable past performances have included Meryl Streep in The Taming of the Shrew, Philip Seymour Hoffman in The Two Gentlemen of Verona, and Al Pacino in The Merchant of Venice. This magical, one-of-a-kind experience should be at the top of everyone’s itinerary!
Find Fun Activities to Do
Those who are looking for a fun and unique way to explore the city might want to head over to Little Island. Floating high above the Hudson River and entirely admission free, this attractive urban landscape would make the perfect day trip for you and your loved ones. The perfect place for kicking back on a sunny July’s afternoon, this stunning green space is home to a wide variety of wildlife and provides magnificent views of the city skyline. On top of it all, the park serves as a venue for a whole host of great outdoor events and first-class musical performances. Take a lazy summertime stroll, watch your favorite side-splitting comedians in action, or catch a drag show– the choice is yours!
Though New York is well-recognized for its renowned cultural amenities and fabulous towering structures, the city’s history-rich neighborhoods really shine in the summertime. Situated at the Southern tip of Brooklyn, Coney Island provides the perfect way to catch some rays complete with a lively beach, wooden boardwalk, and dozens of attractions and rides. Whilst you’re visiting, make sure to check out the most famous hotdog stand in the world, which has been operating since 1916. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!
Want to amble through vast fields of purple and experience the natural beauty of New York State in all of its glory? Well, now you can! Known as one of the largest lavender farms in the United States, Lavender By The Bay provides the perfect relaxing retreat from the city. Here, visitors can take walking tours to admire the breathtaking sight of over 80, 000 colorful shrubs. July is the perfect time to amble through the preservation since the lavender should be in full bloom. Thoroughly Instagram-worthy and relaxing, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a summery July’s afternoon!
There’s nothing quite like New York in the summer. With so much to see, do, and explore, it’s impossible to be bored in this sprawling metropolis. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the fourth of July to its fullest, amble through some lavender gardens, or watch Shakespeare under the stars, the city presents a wide array of exciting activities for every traveller. And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.